ASFMRA Land Report - 2/18/26
February 20, 2026
In this RFD-TV Land Report segment for the ASFMRA, I share insights from Iowa’s 2025 farmland auction market — including record-setting sales and what’s driving current land values across the region.
Key Highlights:
• Iowa farmland values increased 3.6% in 2025, with most gains occurring in the final quarter.
• Multiple county records were set, including:
• Mitchell County: $24,400/acre
• Black Hawk County: $20,238/acre
• Sioux County: $32,000/acre
• Central Iowa sales exceeding $25,000/acre
• Strong crop performance, investor competition, and anticipated federal payments helped support late-year momentum.
• Auction volume declined to 99,000 acres in 2025, down 6% from 2024 and 34% from the 2022 peak — a trend that may continue to support prices into 2026.
As competition between strong local operators and investors continues, 2026 is shaping up to be another pivotal year for farmland markets.
“That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!”
Jim “the Land Talker”
Jim Rothermich, MAI, ARA, ALC
Iowa Appraisal
theLandTalker@iowaappraisal.com ∣ X: @theLandTalker
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